We will try to incorporate the concept of Lund Humanities Village in various ways. The term originates from Anette Andersson’s work with Medvetenskapens hus, but the idea incorporates more – and our research infrastructures in particular. 

In Lund, there is the Science Village, Medicon Village, and plans for a Science Center. Vattenhallen conveys science and technology to schools and the public. But where do you go if you want to engage with knowledge and research in the humanities? Research that spans many fields of knowledge: arts and cultural studies, philosophy, literature, history, theology, and so on. For example, if you have questions about human consciousness, or how emotions, thoughts, decisions, and beliefs are connected? Where is the secular space for existential questions in uncertain times, a space that highlights the importance of aesthetic expressions for deeper understanding? More and more voices – not least from the business sector – are emphasizing the importance of the humanities and interdisciplinary competencies. We, the Joint Faculties of Humanities and Theology (HT), together with Future by Lund, want to launch Humanities Village in Lund as the first innovation district in the world (? we need to double-check this) where the humanities are given a central and visible role. Humanities Village also aims to become an integrated part of Lund Innovation District, a dynamic ecosystem where humanities and theological fields of knowledge are in demand. In Lund Humanities Village, different paths of knowledge meet in our research infrastructures and evtually also outside, in aesthetically designed environments for experience and learning.”

Easy to say on a wonderful spring day like this, when various kinds of Scilla light up the UB park as if it were a shimmering sea. But now you’ve heard it, at least, so let’s try to realize the plans – preferably together – and it’s certainly an advantage that  Lund University Humanities Lab, Lund University Digital Archaeology Laboratory, LUCS Robotics Group, the Museum of Artistic Process and Public Art and, and much more are already in place to build upon.

Best regards,
Johannes